Topshop Unique SS16

I made an exception for Topshop. I usually skip London Fashion week because it’s too short after NY and I need the time to get ready for Milan. But last Sunday I flew to London for the Topshop Unique show.

I arrived at 10.30 AM at the Sanderson hotel. After the check in and a quick touch up it was time to go to the Topshop flagship store at Oxford Street. I never experienced the Topshop Personal Shopper service. I was super excited about it. I had an appointment at 11 AM, 30 minutes before the opening of the store. Such an experience girls, an empty Topshop! I didn’t know where to start, thank god for my shopping assistent.

Did you ever experienced a personal shopping service at Topshop? It’s amazing!! The shoppers give you styling advice. They share their Products & Trend expertise. You have your own large changing room, there’s a couch for your shopping partner. I’m actually sure that if you inform your bf about this, he will book an appointment for you. You have to experience this yourself!

I had just 1 hour to shop my look for the show. It wasn’t easy to choose because I saw so many amazing items (the sequin jeans and black skinny velvet jeans are still on my mind) but I succeeded to select a look. I dropped my bags at the hotel I jumped into a taxi to go to the show venue. It was the first time I brought a backstage visit before a Topshop Unique show. It was hectic like it always is backstage, but super energetic. The models were having fun.

I felt this energy during the show. The SS16 collection went nostalgic for Britsh heritage. Clashing polka dots, Leopard, Strawberry and Jasperware prints, Faux fur. A mix of textiles and trends. Tea dresses over bomber jackets and colorful knits. Shorts in combination with tuxedo’s. Classic British jumpers and trenchcoats in combination with stylish leather belts. I love the way the British heritage is reflected in the collection.

After the show I got the opportunity to ask Topshop Unique’s creative director Kate Phelan a couple of questions. She explained to me that the British heritage is the biggest source of inspiration for Topshop. That there are so many ways to define the British style. The history of tailoring and the definition of this style. For the SS16 collection they focused on a typical British summer. Cricket and Tennis, Tea dresses and Garden Parties. SS16 is all about having fun. Showing your own personality. “Everyone has had a Topshop experience in their life, it’s where you go. It’s your playground,”